Planning commission approves rezoning at 1321 Summit Avenue for public parking despite neighbor objections

The Detroit Lakes Planning Commission voted to rezone 1321 Summit Avenue from R2 (one- and two-family residential) to LB (Lakefront Business), clearing the way for a public parking lot the city says will replace spaces lost during reconstruction of Westlake Drive.

City staff said the parcel sits near People’s Park and the city beach and that the change is consistent with the comprehensive plan; staff also presented a preliminary layout and said a recent public open-house survey showed roughly 67% of respondents supported a parking lot. Staff and commissioners said the proposed lot would provide substantial off-street parking to offset 59 spaces that will be lost with the Westlake Drive project.

Neighbors spoke strongly against the rezoning during public comment. "This property may currently be seen as wasted space to the city, but as a neighbor, we see it as a well-used green space," said Angie Polyki of 1317 Summit Avenue, reading a written statement urging alternatives such as native plantings, picnic tables or a dedicated pet-relief area. Polyki asked that, if development proceeds, the city include privacy screening and "a large, well-made, and private fence" of at least 6 feet on the north side to protect adjacent homes.

Kurt Wild, who lives next to the parcel on Minnesota Avenue, said he feared loss of enjoyment, devaluation and increased late-night noise and light. Chuck and Janice Palm, whose bedroom windows face the site, told the commission a new lot about 100 feet from bedrooms would disrupt sleep and suggested the city avoid an exit onto Minnesota Avenue. Several commenters urged the commission to consider alternatives, such as adding parking at the fairgrounds or using pervious paving and rain gardens.

City staff said the lot would be publicly owned and not controlled by any private business. "They have nothing to do with this. This is fully a public parking lot," said Larry, responding to concerns that a nearby restaurant would have special access. Commissioners acknowledged that the screening requested by neighbors may go beyond minimum ordinance requirements and agreed to meet with adjoining property owners about fencing, lighting and hours. One commissioner noted the ordinance provides screening standards but that neighbors’ requests for taller, continuous fencing and reduced nighttime access could require additional discussion.

The commission voted to approve the rezoning; the item will go next to the Community Development Committee and then to the City Council for final action. Staff said additional design details — including planting plans, fencing and any time-of-day restrictions — will be developed as the project moves through permitting.

The commission’s recommendation is advisory; final approval and any specific operating conditions will be decided by the City Council at a later date.